Kilómetros de Cambio: Running Against Gender Violence in Puerto Rico

Starting on May 17, a remarkable relay race known as "Kilómetros de Cambio" began its journey across Puerto Rico, aimed at raising awareness and funds to combat gender violence. This inaugural event, initiated by triathlete Déborah Maldonado, will feature twenty-seven women runners, including media personality Alexandra Fuentes, who kicked off the race on Friday at 5:30 a.m.

The race will traverse the island, starting in San Juan, heading west, and then looping back to the starting point in a continuous relay. The relay segments are meticulously planned to match the pace of each participating athlete, ensuring a seamless transition and continuous movement throughout the event. At every baton exchange point—of which there will be 27, corresponding to the number of runners—representatives from the National Network of Shelters for Gender Violence, as well as local municipal officials, will be present to provide information and support to attendees.

Each of the 27 women runners will be accompanied by a support team of 10 to 15 additional runners, forming a robust network to support the athletes throughout the event. This ensures that the runners are not only physically supported but also bolstered by a community committed to the cause. The dedication and determination of these 27 women are truly commendable as they use their athleticism to bring attention to such a vital issue.

The initiative was inspired by the tragic case of Rosimar Rodríguez Gómez, who was kidnapped and murdered in September 2020. The brutal crime and the subsequent conviction of Jay O’Neill González, who received a 129-year prison sentence, spurred Maldonado to take action. "Kilómetros de Cambio" is her way of transforming personal anguish into a powerful collective effort to support survivors of domestic violence and advocate for women's empowerment and gender equality.

A support vehicle from the National Network of Shelters will accompany the runners, ready to assist any woman who feels threatened. The funds raised from this event will be directed to nine shelters dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their children. This event, which aims to support women victims of gender violence by raising funds for the shelters that receive them and their children, comes at a critical time as Puerto Rico has faced 12 femicides so far this year—an alarming issue that demands urgent attention and action.

For Maldonado, "Kilómetros de Cambio" is far more than just a race; it is a symbolic fight against fear and abuse, a call for female empowerment, and a significant stride towards gender equity in Puerto Rico. As the runners pound the pavement over the three days, they will not only cover physical miles but also bring the crucial message of hope, resilience, and change to communities across the island.

This first edition of "Kilómetros de Cambio" marks a significant milestone in the fight against gender violence, setting a precedent for future events aimed at fostering awareness, support, and empowerment for women across Puerto Rico.

Those who wish to contribute financially to this cause can do so via ATH Movil in the business section under "Kilometrosdecambio" or at Banco Popular account number 66-1062633. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.